The Reno-Tahoe Equestrian Centre’s Riding
Academy provides riders with all levels of experience, and
from every age group with a comprehensive education in the art
and science of horsemanship. With advanced degrees and a
wealth of national competition experience and success, RTEC
instructors excel in their ability to transfer technical
knowledge directly from teacher to student in a safe and
enjoyable environment. With a wide range of rates and
packages, RTEC students are able to select a program that fits
their lifestyle and helps them move forward in the realization
of their equestrian goals. Why train with RTEC?
- Impeccable safety record
- Cutting edge facility
- Conveniently located 5 minutes from
Sierra Summit Mall
(intersection of Mt. Rose highway and
395)
- Nationally ranked trainers
- Flexible
schedules in numerous disciplines
- Testing
testing and more testing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to own a horse to take lessons?
No,
you do not need to own your own horse to take lessons! One of
RTEC's main differentiators is that it's a Riding Academy, which means
we have horses trained specifically for our lesson program. In
fact, you or your child could ride our lesson horses for years.
In the case that you have your own horse, if your horse is
trained at RTEC, you will have the opportunity to ride your own horse
during lessons.
Do you teach Western or English?
We teach many disciplines including Western, English, Hunter, Showmanship, Side Saddle, and Working Cow Horse.
Do you have different sessions for beginner or advanced riders?
Yes,
we strive to create a program that works for each rider. We ask
that the rider begin with an introductory lesson in order for the
instructors to better assess the rider's ability and knowledge.
RTEC offers private (1 rider), semi-private (2), and group (3-4)
lessons. The instructor and rider will discuss which type of
desired lesson is appropriate for you. At the time of joining
RTEC there may not be a semi-private or group lesson available to be
become a part of as we assess our skills; however, there may be
possible opportunities arising in the future. We work to
accommodate those requests.
How many times a week can I ride?
Depending
on the lesson program you sign-up for, you may have the chance to ride
3-4 times per week (i.e., one day is private, one day may be
semi-private, and another day may be in a group, etc.) Our
instructors work hard to fit with your schedule and the possible times
that you can ride. You may choose to ride with a certain
instructor, with the possibility that you may have two or three
instructors to work with depending on your riding schedule.
What is the general age demographic of RTEC's riders?
We
offer lessons to all age groups, with the youngest age being five.
These riders participate in the MiniMites program, which is a
lesson period of 45 minutes. Exceptions for younger children may
be made depending on the circumstances. The average RTEC rider is
younger and teenage girls and/or boys who desire to learn confidence
and horsemanship. We have many riders whom are well into their
"golden years" too!
How long and how much are the lessons?
Lessons
are from 45 minutes to an hour. Prices may vary, but in general
range between $35 and $75. RTEC is unique in that we offer
lesson-training packages, where a rider may sign-up for multiple
sessions at one time and follow a schedule every week. Signing up
for a package will automatically earn you savings and the more lessons
you choose to sign-up for, the more savings you will receive. We
have packages with savings between 2% and 10%. Also, we are one
of the few riding facilities that offer University of Nevada, Reno
students their own rates. Go Pack!
Will my child learn how to take care of a horse?
Yes,
your child is required to learn how to take care of the horse before,
during, and after the lesson period. RTEC is known for being more
than just a Riding Academy; we live and work by the slogan, "Where It's
More Than Riding a Horse!" Riders are introduced to the typical
routine of riding lessons and what their responsibility is when they
come and ride. Under the supervision of our instructors, they are
responsible for getting the horse used in their lesson, grooming, and
tacking the horse up, as well as the process after the lesson is
finished. Our instructors are very knowledgeable and have
different backgrounds that we will be able to teach your child from the
ground up.
I love horses, but do not feel riding will be my thing. Do you offer extra activities involving being around horses?
We
do offer activities that involve horses, without riding, including
ground-driving lessons, horse care and grooming, and in-handwork.
Depending on the desired skill set, RTEC can create a program
just for you. For instance, we teach many game hunters how to
ride in preparation for their actual hunting event. Just ask us!
What should I wear to my first lesson?
The
attire at your first lesson is important for both your safety and the
guidelines for riding at the academy. You should be prepared to
wear a riding helmet, boots with a hard sole and heel; long or short
sleeve shirt (depending on the weather), jacket/sweatshirt, and long
pants that are not made of slippery material. We do provide
limited riding helmets, but should you continue to ride with RTEC, you
will want to buy a riding helmet of your own. Tennis shoes,
flip-flops, sandals, and clogs are not allowed under any circumstances.
Again, if after your first couple of lessons it looks like you
want to continue, you will want to buy riding boots, a riding helmet,
riding pants, and riding gloves for your own personal use. Just
ask an instructor where to purchase riding equipment. Once a
member of RTEC, you will be provided a locker for your belongings.
Is the riding arena indoors?
Yes
completely! And, in fact, there is a beautiful clubhouse where
friends and family can watch the lesson in complete comfort of cozy
couches, play pool, or enjoy a good book.
Will I be able to show at horse shows?
Yes,
RTEC is both a lesson and training facility that provides instruction
for the beginning riders all the way to those advanced riders with
intentions to attend shows. Many riders at RTEC choose to compete
after they have ridden with the academy and it is our every goal to
make that happen. We attend numerous shows throughout the show
season (typically February through November).
My goal is to own my own horse. Do you have horses for lease or for sale?
Yes,
we always have horses for lease, as well as for sale. If you want
to build up to owning your own horse, we have different lease packages
in order for you to test the horse out and give you some responsibilty,
but not all. Several of the lesson horses have been leased for
purposes of riders taking them to shows during a show season or simply
for some extra riding time. As you fall more into the category of
officially becoming a horse owner, we also have sale prices on several
facility horses, some as lesson horses and others being purely trained.
However, if one of RTEC's horses does not suit you or you are not
ready for one of them to come home with you, our trainers are fit to
help you find that perfect match elsewhere and will guide you in the
direction.
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